Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
